‘I have faced unreal hate and negativity’ – “3D cricketer” Vijay Shankar retires from all cricket

Vijay Shankar announced his retirement from domestic cricket and the IPL on May 22, 2026, bringing the curtain down on a notable career across international cricket, domestic competitions, and the IPL.

The all-rounder represented India in 12 ODIs and nine T20Is, while also enjoying a strong domestic career in First-Class cricket, where he scored more than 4,000 runs. In the IPL, he played for four franchises and accumulated over 1,000 runs, contributing consistently across multiple seasons.

One of the standout phases of his IPL journey came in the 2023 season with Gujarat Titans, where he impressed with an attacking strike rate of over 130 and played a key role in the middle order. In his retirement message, Shankar expressed gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Indian cricket team for the learnings, countless memories and inspirations throughout his career.

“A HEARTFELT THANK YOU Cricket is my life. I started playing when I was 10 and 25 years later, I am grateful and blessed to have played at every level and to the highest level. Representing our country will always be one of my proudest and happiest moments. I have decided to retire from playing domestic cricket and IPL to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket. Thank you will not suffice for letting me do what I love. Eternally grateful,” wrote Shankar on X.

“Thankful to BCCI and the Indian Cricket Team – many learnings, countless memories and various inspirations! Representing the country will be my highest badge of honour. Bowling the last over at India’s 500th ODI at Nagpur and my First ball First wicket at the 2019 world cup are moments I will hold onto forever! My IPL Teams GT, SRH, CSK and DC – special thank you! The experience and lessons from all around have made me what I am today!,” he added.

Before announcing his retirement, Shankar had recently moved from Tamil Nadu to Tripura to continue his domestic cricket journey. The experienced all-rounder made an immediate impact for Tripura, showcasing both his batting class and bowling utility. In his final appearance for Tripura, Shankar signed off in style with a superb unbeaten 151 against Gujarat. Along with the match-winning knock, he also delivered a disciplined spell with the ball.

“TNCA – under 13,15,17,19,22,25 and finally, senior men’s team – I’ve spent most of my life here. Thank you to everyone at every step of the way. Captained and won trophies with this very special side. Numerous hurdles and challenges shaped me into a better cricketer,” wrote Shankar.

“Thanks to Tripura Team for letting me carry on the dream for a little while longer. My teams at the TNPL – CSG, IDTT, SS. Loved playing this special tournament with all the TN talents. My most prestigious – TN league teams – Indian Bank, ICF, India Cements and now, Take Solutions – This is where it all began and keeps going for years. Grateful to have had the opportunity to play here,” he added.